Queensland’s rental laws underwent significant changes in 2024, introducing new regulations on rent pricing, lease terms, and property compliance. These updates, now fully in effect, aim to increase transparency, enhance tenant protections, and standardise rental practices.
For property investors in Brisbane, Logan, Moreton Bay, Redland, and Ipswich, these changes may impact how rent increases are managed, how lease agreements are structured, and how properties are maintained to meet compliance standards. Here’s what landlords need to know.
Key Rental Law Changes for Brisbane Landlords (Effective Since June 2024)
Rent Bidding is Now Banned
Landlords and property managers can no longer accept offers above the advertised rental price. This rule prevents bidding wars and ensures that tenants are considered based on the listed rent.
Limits on Rent in Advance Payments
At the start of a tenancy, landlords can request a maximum of:
• Two weeks’ rent in advance for periodic agreements
• One month’s rent in advance for fixed-term agreements
While tenants may choose to pay further in advance, landlords cannot request or require this.
Rent Increases Now Limited to Once Per Year
• Rent increases are now capped at one per 12 months per property, regardless of whether a new tenant moves in.
• The last rent increase must be recorded in the lease agreement for full transparency.
• Tenants now have the right to request proof of rent increases, and landlords must provide this within 14 days.
Exemptions for Rent Increases
Most properties must adhere to the 12-month rule, but exemptions apply in some cases:
• Financial Hardship: Landlords facing financial difficulty can apply to QCAT (Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal) for permission to increase rent within 12 months.
• Recent Purchases: If a property was purchased between 6 June 2023 and 6 June 2025, and the new owner does not have records of past rent increases, they are not required to provide this information.
Additional Rental Law Changes Implemented in September 2024
Further rental law changes came into effect on 30 September 2024, including:
• Revised bond and rent payment rules
• Clearer regulations on passing utility charges to tenants
• Updated calculations for re-letting costs when a tenant breaks a lease
These updates provide greater clarity on financial responsibilities between landlords and tenants.
Minimum Housing Standards Now Apply to All Rental Properties
As of 1 September 2024, minimum housing standards apply to all rental properties in Queensland, including those with tenancies that started before the law was introduced.
These standards ensure all rental properties meet basic safety, security, and habitability requirements. Landlords who have not yet addressed compliance issues should act now to avoid potential disputes or penalties.
What These Changes Mean for Brisbane Property Investors
With all 2024 rental law changes now in effect, landlords need to take a more proactive approach to compliance and rental pricing.
• Rent increases must be planned carefully – With annual rent increases now strictly capped, it’s essential to set rental prices strategically at lease renewal.
• Maintaining compliance records is critical – Keeping clear documentation of rental increases, property conditions, and lease terms is now a key part of managing investment properties.
• Minimum housing standards must be met – Properties that do not comply with the September 2024 housing standards may face legal challenges.
• Market conditions remain favourable, but regulation is increasing – With new laws fully in place, landlords should work with experienced property managers to ensure compliance while maximising returns.
If you own investment properties in Brisbane or surrounding regions and need expert property management to navigate these changes, now is the time to act.
Ensure Compliance and Maximise Your Investment Returns
The Queensland rental market is evolving, and ensuring your Brisbane investment property remains compliant and profitable requires expert management. At Worth Real Estate, we specialise in:
• Strategic rental pricing to align with market conditions and legislation
• Lease compliance management to ensure all legal obligations are met
• Minimising vacancy periods by securing quality tenants efficiently
• Proactive property maintenance to keep your investment well maintained, keeping strong relationships with your tenants, and ultimately performing at its best
If you need guidance on rental law compliance, lease renewals, or maximising returns on your Brisbane investment property, our team is here to help.
Contact us today to discuss how we can assist in protecting and growing your investment portfolio.